BOSTON — The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) Qualifying Ride customers will be eligible for a means-based fare structure, receiving a $1 discount on trips under a new pilot program that will begin at least by July, WBUR reported.

A total of 600 customers will be eligible for the six-month pilot, which will cost $480,000. The pilot program did not require a vote by the state’s Transportation Board, though some members voiced support and others questioned whether the goal of lowering fares for low-income riders with disabilities could be accomplished another way. For the full story, click here.

]]>A total of 600 customers will be eligible for the six-month pilot, which will cost $480,000. The program did not require a vote by the state’s Transportation Board, though some members voiced support and others questioned whether the goal of lowering fares for low-income riders with disabilities could be accomplished another way.John Phelanhttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/boston-to-pilot-needs-based-paratransit-discounts.aspxDid Uber price gouge during Bay Area 'stormageddon'?http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/5tn4shrRB6Y/did-uber-price-gouge-during-bay-area-stormageddon-.aspxMon, 15 Dec 2014 09:34:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/did-uber-price-gouge-during-bay-area-stormageddon-.aspxSAN FRANCISCO — A campaign by the Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association is claiming Uber broke its word when it implemented surge pricing during last week’s "stormageddon" in the Bay Area, reported The Examiner.

Uber customers took to Twitter on Thursday morning amid the biggest storm to hit the region in five years to complain that Uber was charging 3.8 times its normal fare rates. In July, a blog post by Uber spokeswoman Nairi Hourdajian announced the ride service was instituting a policy on surge pricing for U.S. cities that would cap pricing during disasters and relevant states of emergency. For the full story, click here.

]]>Customers took to Twitter on Thursday morning amid the biggest storm to hit the region in five years to complain that Uber was charging 3.8 times its normal fare rates.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/did-uber-price-gouge-during-bay-area-stormageddon-.aspxVa. OKs 60 new wheelchair-accessible taxishttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/QCvTSTwdggg/va-oks-60-new-wheelchair-accessible-taxis.aspxMon, 15 Dec 2014 09:34:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/va-oks-60-new-wheelchair-accessible-taxis.aspx

ARLINGTON, Va. — Sixty new wheelchair-accessible taxicabs, most operated by the new All Access Taxi, which has a fleet of vans serving people with disabilities, won the right Saturday to operate in Arlington County, Va., reported The Washington Post.

The County Board agreed to award 50 certificates to All Access, which plans to have their first vehicles on the road by February, with most operating by April. The action increases the number of wheelchair-accessible taxis available to Arlington customers from 37 to 97. For the full story, click here.

]]>The County Board agreed to award 50 certificates to All Access Taxi, which has a fleet of vans serving people with disabilities.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/va-oks-60-new-wheelchair-accessible-taxis.aspxCarsharing services face stricter rules from N.J. lawmakershttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/1S0tRj1DyZo/carsharing-services-face-stricter-rules-from-n-j-lawmakers.aspxMon, 15 Dec 2014 08:32:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/carsharing-services-face-stricter-rules-from-n-j-lawmakers.aspxNEWARK, N.J. — New Jersey lawmakers today took the first step toward regulating new and growing “ridesharing” services like Uber and Lyft by approving a bill that would require them to apply for permits with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, NJ Advance Media reported.

The bill also requires proof that the company provides insurance of up to $250,000 per incident from the moment a driver opens the app that allows him to accept fares, as well as $10,000 for medical insurance coverage, the report said.

The drivers would also have to seek an endorsement on their licenses from the MVC certifying that their license is valid, their vehicles have been inspected and they have clean driving and criminal background histories. They would have their license, registration and insurance checked annually, and their criminal backgrounds checked every three years. Drivers would also have to take a drug test, according to NJ Advance Media.

]]>Services like Uber and Lyft would have to apply for permits, provide proof of insurance of up to $250,000 per incident and drivers would have to have vehicles inspected and have clean driving and criminal background histories.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/carsharing-services-face-stricter-rules-from-n-j-lawmakers.aspxLost and Found on Public Transit and Hopefully Reunitedhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/Nm-Zm0qa7-Y/lost-found-and-hopefully-reunited.aspxHeather RedfernFri, 12 Dec 2014 10:13:21 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/blog/transit-dispatches/story/2014/12/lost-found-and-hopefully-reunited.aspxOne might think with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and passengers carrying more packages than usual on buses, trains and trolleys, transit organizations’ lost and found departments could be busier than usual. For large authorities like the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), the lost and found bins are often full throughout the year, not just during the Christmas season.

Sift through some of the “treasures” found on SEPTA’s approximately 1,400 buses and you will see the typical umbrella, lunch bag and hat. “On routes that carry a lot of students, we often find textbooks and musical instruments,” said Dave Rogers, SEPTA's senior director, surface transportation. But for every flute, lone glove and diaper bag, there are even more unique items.

“We get a lot of four-footed canes,” said Fred Melhuish, assistant director, transportation, at SEPTA’s Midvale Bus District. “It makes you wonder if the person needed the cane to get on the bus, why wouldn’t they need it when they left?” Other found oddities that leave operators and dispatchers scratching their heads include bowling balls, a vacuum cleaner, dentures, a guitar synthesizer and bikes (left on a bus’ bike rack). “We had an operator turn in a box of medical records that was left behind,” said Chris Valentine, assistant director, transportation. “Luckily, there was contact information for the company, and we were able to get the sensitive materials to the right hands.”

For SEPTA surface transportation, each district has a room dedicated for lost and found. Items are placed in dated bins and held for 30 days. “We hope that someone will come forward to claim their property,” said Valentin. “If there is identification on the item, we will send a card to the owner. Otherwise, we have to wait until the owner reaches out to SEPTA.”

Working with the lost and found is like playing detective. “For phones, tablets and laptops we look for some number we can call or an email address,” said Valentin. “When we are able to track down an owner, often they didn’t think to contact SEPTA to see if the item was left on the bus.”

“We’ve called banks, dentists’ offices, lawyers, anything to try to reunite the owners with their items, especially when it is something we know is important,” said Rogers, who recently put his sleuthing skills to use to find the owner of a wallet left on a bus on Black Friday. Using just the number for a local bank branch, Rogers tracked down the owner. Within just a few days she was ecstatically retrieving her property — and all of its contents intact — at SEPTA’s headquarters, making the holiday season happy once again.

“More often than not, we get calls from people whose items we don’t have,” said Melhuish. “But if it was left behind on the bus, there’s a good chance it was turned in.”

Just because something was lost on a city bus, train or trolley doesn’t mean it can’t be found. Miracles can happen all year long, not just during the holidays.

]]>One might think with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and passengers carrying more packages than usual on buses, trains and trolleys, transit organizations’ lost and found departments could be busier than usual. For large authorities like the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority, the lost and found bins are often full throughout the year, not just during the Christmas season.SEPTA Assistant Director of Transportation Chris Valentin holds one of the many musical instruments students often leave behind on&amp;nbsp; the buses.http://www.metro-magazine.com/blog/transit-dispatches/story/2014/12/lost-found-and-hopefully-reunited.aspxVan Fosson to lead Brookville Equipmenthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/53i_PcOe3bA/van-fosson-begins-brookville-equipement-tenure.aspxFri, 12 Dec 2014 09:20:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/van-fosson-begins-brookville-equipement-tenure.aspxMarion H. Van Fosson began his tenure as president of Brookville Equipment Corp. this week and will oversee the Pennsylvania-based manufacturer’s long-term strategy and daily operations across all business units, including mining, tunneling, locomotives and streetcar products.

Van Fosson succeeds Brookville CEO, chairman and interim president Dalph S. McNeil, who held the post for the past two months following the retirement of Larry Conrad. Van Fosson’s experience includes over 25 years of varying levels of leadership roles and a proven portfolio of driving growth for producers of highly engineered equipment with complex manufacturing requirements for midsize to large-size businesses.

He also served in the United States Army for 22 years before retiring in 2001.

]]>Will oversee the Pennsylvania-based manufacturer’s long-term strategy and daily operations across all business units, including mining, tunneling, locomotives and streetcar products.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/van-fosson-begins-brookville-equipement-tenure.aspxN.Y. MTA safety videos targets those riding, walking, cycling near buseshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/-Tc3FmnCfrI/n-y-mta-launches-safety-psa-campaign.aspxFri, 12 Dec 2014 09:20:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/n-y-mta-launches-safety-psa-campaign.aspxThe New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) produced a new on-air public service announcement campaign for New York City Transit buses and the MTA Bus Co. to educate bus customers, pedestrians, and bicyclists about safety on and around buses.

The new video campaign extends the MTA’s ongoing safety initiative to improve bus safety for anyone riding, walking, or cycling near MTA buses and works in conjunction with New York City’s “Vision Zero” program to eliminate traffic fatalities. The MTA has recorded 14% fewer bus collisions involving pedestrians this year, down from the same period a year earlier, and 6% fewer collisions involving bicyclists.

The 30-second public service announcements are part of the MTA’s three-pronged approach to improving bus safety. In addition to raising public awareness of safety issues involving buses, the MTA is testing technology to reduce the likelihood of collisions with pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles, and is also enhancing training for bus operators.

The new announcements echo the message from an MTA’s print campaign that launched earlier in 2014 featuring slogans such as “Watch out – don’t tune out!” reminding customers to stay alert while using electronic devices. That campaign included a bus safety brochure in six languages, three posters and safety messages displayed on the rear of bus seats.

The new PSAs, which will air on local broadcast television stations in both English and Spanish, bring the print campaign to life by demonstrating the dangers of walking or cycling while distracted near a bus. They remind users of electronic devices that it only takes a second of inattention for a pedestrian or cyclist to come in contact with a bus.

In addition to educating its customers through the print and video campaign, the MTA is also improving bus safety by rolling out two proof of concept programs in 2015. One is a pedestrian warning system that will sound an external audio warning when a bus is making a turn. The other proof of concept program is a collision avoidance system that will use multiple on-board sensors such as radar to detect vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists, and proactively warn and alert the bus operator of a potentially dangerous situation.

]]>In addition to raising public awareness of safety issues involving buses, the MTA is testing technology to reduce the likelihood of collisions with pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles, and is also enhancing training for bus operators.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/n-y-mta-launches-safety-psa-campaign.aspxAfter defeated referendum Pinellas going back to drawing boardhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/LI3j07MZAUw/pinellas-suncoast-transit-going-back-to-drawing-board.aspxFri, 12 Dec 2014 09:20:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/pinellas-suncoast-transit-going-back-to-drawing-board.aspx

CLEARWATER, Fla. — In the wake of the convincing defeat of the Greenlight Pinellas referendum, rejected by 62% of voters, Pinellas County transportation officials are searching for ways to improve a public transportation system that is both inadequate and underfunded, reported The St. Petersburg Tribune.

Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority board members agreed to a series of work sessions, beginning on Jan. 21, to begin mapping a plan to solve the county’s transportation issues, primarily the bus system. For the full story, click here.

]]>Following a resounding defeat of the Greenlight Pinellas referendum in November, board members agreed to a series of work sessions, beginning on Jan. 21, to begin mapping a plan to solve the county’s transportation issues, primarily the bus system.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/pinellas-suncoast-transit-going-back-to-drawing-board.aspxCoast RTA works to turn maintenance shop aroundhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/RNfDcc7cSh4/coast-rta-works-to-turn-maintenance-shop-around.aspxFri, 12 Dec 2014 08:12:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/coast-rta-works-to-turn-maintenance-shop-around.aspxMYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — It was as recent as October when Coast RTA customers were last dealing with buses breaking down, and some even reported the smell of gasoline while riding the transit, The Sun News reported.

In steps, a consultant sent by the Federal Transit Authority and a change in leadership from within the company, break downs have become nearly obsolete and the road to safe travels is arguably smoother than before, according to the report.

The agency has since repaired a maintenance pit, lessened the amount of parts it keeps on site and began working on getting rid of buses it could no longer use based on recommendations from the consultant, officials told The Sun News.

]]>The agency has since repaired a maintenance pit, lessened the amount of parts it keeps on site and began working on getting rid of buses it could no longer use based on recommendations.Coast RTA photo by James Willamor via Flickrhttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/coast-rta-works-to-turn-maintenance-shop-around.aspxTransportation hub opens, reflects O.C. Calif.'s embrace of public transithttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/zetFFcv9t-A/transportation-hub-opens-reflects-o-c-calif-s-embrace-of-public-transit.aspxFri, 12 Dec 2014 08:12:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/transportation-hub-opens-reflects-o-c-calif-s-embrace-of-public-transit.aspxANAHEIM, Calif. — This week, commuters got their first view of an enormous, airy transportation hub that reflects Orange County's growing embrace of public transit, the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC), the Los Angeles Times reported.

The $188-million transportation center in the heart of Anaheim, not far from Disneyland, is designed as a central hub where trains, buses, cars and bicycles will converge. Officials hope it ultimately will be the final stop for the state's proposed high-speed bullet train, according to the report.Backers say the aim wasn't just to create a train station but to also make a statement about the future. They wanted a central station to unite previously scattered transportation services, said Curt Pringle, the former mayor of Anaheim and once board chairman of the California High-Speed Rail Authority, the Times reported.

]]>The $188-million transportation center in the heart of Anaheim, not far from Disneyland, is designed as a central hub where trains, buses, cars and bicycles will converge. Officials hope it ultimately will be the final stop for the state's proposed high-speed bullet train.Photos courtesy ARTIChttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/transportation-hub-opens-reflects-o-c-calif-s-embrace-of-public-transit.aspxPrevost releases second mobile service truck in Montreal areahttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/P4zNFHst2lY/prevost-releases-second-mobile-service-truck-in-montreal-area.aspxFri, 12 Dec 2014 08:12:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/prevost-releases-second-mobile-service-truck-in-montreal-area.aspxPrevost recently sent its second mobile service truck into operation out of the Montreal area. The first Prevost service truck in Montreal had such great success that a second one was needed as soon as possible. The second service truck allows Prevost to offer even more services to the growing customer base in Montreal and for those that are traveling through or visiting Montreal.

With the launch of this second mobile service, Prevost once again proves their commitment to their customers, offering more mobile maintenance and repair service for motorcoaches and transit operators in the Montreal area. Prevost goes the extra mile by providing emergency roadside service or for schedule maintenance or repairs at a customer’s location.

Each mobile service vehicle is a fully-fitted mobile repair unit which allows for rapid response times, especially in the case of emergency roadside diagnosis and repair. The second mobile service truck is operated by a Prevost service technician who is certified for bumper-to-bumper maintenance and repair for all Nova Bus, Prevost and Volvo vehicles, including engine and transmission. In addition, they can perform repairs on most brands of motorcoaches in a customer’s fleet.

The second service truck joins the ranks of the other 33 Prevost mobile service trucks within North America, located throughout the U.S. and Canada. The mobile service trucks allow Prevost technicians to take a proactive approach to resolve potential problems before they occur. This allows customers to save money and time by allowing a service technician to come to them and diagnosis a problem first-hand.

]]>Operated by a Prevost service technician who is certified for bumper-to-bumper maintenance and repair for all Nova Bus, Prevost and Volvo vehicles, including engine and transmission. In addition, they can perform repairs on most brands of motorcoaches in a customer’s fleet.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/prevost-releases-second-mobile-service-truck-in-montreal-area.aspxU.S. commuters wait approximately 40 mins. a day for public transithttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/ixlNlrGU4Ko/u-s-commuters-wait-approximately-40-mins-a-day-for-public-transit.aspxThu, 11 Dec 2014 10:30:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/u-s-commuters-wait-approximately-40-mins-a-day-for-public-transit.aspxPeople in major U.S. cities wait approximately 40 minutes per day for public transit, costing them 150 hours per year, according to a new report by leading public transit app Moovit. This accounts for 31% of their commute time. Los Angeles topped the list with the worst waiting time in the world, with Boston taking third place.

The Waiting is the Hardest Part

These long waits are a major factor in causing dissatisfaction with public transit. In the five major cities surveyed in the U.S., 31% of the people surveyed are dissatisfied with public transportation. The primary frustration across all U.S. cities surveyed is a lack of information — not knowing when or if the bus or train is going to arrive. This was considered more important than actual wait times, safety, overcrowding, and unfamiliar routes. This frustration can be significantly reduced by providing people with better transit data.

“Based on these findings, it is clear that people would use public transit more often if they knew when their next train or bus is coming,” says Nir Erez, CEO and co-founder of Moovit. “Technology can solve this challenge. Real-time location and estimated arrival of people’s buses and/or trains is now being made available. With more than 400 global cities and 10 million downloads under our belt, Moovit is doing its part to get the word out. We are rapidly expanding to cities across the globe.”

Results across the four major U.S. cities were relatively consistent in terms of level of dissatisfaction and wait times, but there were significant differences in terms of time spent on public transit:

New York City: Respondents spend an average of 149 minutes on public transport each day, 38 minutes (26 percent) idly waiting for the bus or train to arrive, with a 40% dissatisfaction rate

Time Spent on Public Transit U.S. vs. Global

In the U.S., people spend an average of 105 minutes per day on public transit. New York City topped the list in terms of longest commute time in the world at 149 minutes. Globally, Sao Paulo and Toronto came in next with 138-minute average commutes. Los Angeles and Rio de Janeiro topped the list in terms of longest wait times at 41 minutes, followed by Boston at 39 minutes. Commuters in Barcelona and Milan spend the shortest amount of time on public transit at 63 and 74 minutes per day, as well as waiting for trains and busses with wait times of 18 and 19 minutes respectively.

]]>Not knowing when train or bus will arrive is number one commuter frustration, more than actual wait times, safety, overcrowding, and unfamiliar routes, according to a report by public transit app Moovit.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/u-s-commuters-wait-approximately-40-mins-a-day-for-public-transit.aspxRains, wind impact Bay Area morning commutehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/ugdh8iliTEc/rains-wind-impact-bay-area-morning-commute.aspxThu, 11 Dec 2014 09:58:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/rains-wind-impact-bay-area-morning-commute.aspxSAN FRANCISCO — Heavy rains and wind caused a major systemwide delay on BART shut two of the transit system’s stations, flooded Interstate 280 on the Peninsula and forced the closure of the Embarcadero in San Francisco on Thursday morning, reported the San Francisco Chronicle.

BART shut down its Montgomery Street Station in San Francisco about 7:20 a.m. because of a power outage that caused it to lose lighting on the platform level. Trains were running through the station without stopping. The transit agency also reduced acceleration rates for all trains departing stations due to the rain. The change, imposed to keep train wheels from slipping, caused major delays systemwide. For the full story, click here.

]]>BART shut down its Montgomery Street Station in San Francisco about 7:20 a.m. because of a power outage that caused it to lose lighting on the platform level.The transit agency also reduced acceleration rates for all trains departing stations due to the rain.cjohnson7http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/rains-wind-impact-bay-area-morning-commute.aspxIndyGo to bar 'personal care attendants' from riding freehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/VvaDmfYfOOo/indygo-to-bar-personal-care-attendants-from-riding-free.aspxThu, 11 Dec 2014 09:31:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/indygo-to-bar-personal-care-attendants-from-riding-free.aspx

The agency’s bus drivers recently reported a rash of passengers pretending to be caretakers so they can get a free ride, and in some cases, they’d get off a different stop then the person they were allegedly assisting. For the full story, click here.

]]>The agency’s bus drivers recently reported a rash of passengers pretending to be caretakers so they can get a free ride, and in some cases, they’d get off a different stop then the person they were allegedly assisting.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/indygo-to-bar-personal-care-attendants-from-riding-free.aspxAC Transit, BART team for late-night servicehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/8TGsJTUF8JM/ac-transit-bart-team-for-late-night-service.aspxThu, 11 Dec 2014 09:11:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/ac-transit-bart-team-for-late-night-service.aspxThe Calif. Bay Area’s AC Transit and BART collaborated to launch a one-year pilot program that increases the options for late night commuters, providing new destinations and improved frequency of pre-dawn buses between San Francisco and the East Bay on weekends.

The beefed up afterhours operation, launching this weekend, will include a new route, Line 822, which will extend bus service to BART stations from Mission and 24th streets in San Francisco to Pittsburg-Bay Point in the East Bay. In addition, the frequency of late-night service from San Francisco to Richmond BART (Line 800) and Oakland to BayFair BART (Line 801) will improve from 30 minutes to 20 minutes, whereas the frequency of late-night service from Oakland to Fremont will improve from 60 minutes to 40 minutes.

“Night-life in both San Francisco and Oakland are important aspects of those economies,” said AC Transit Board President Greg Harper. “We are happy that we are able to engage in a joint venture with BART to provide safe and affordable transit for those patrons. This is likely to be the first of many such efforts.”

BART secured $796,000 in funds to conduct the pilot project targeted to those who rely on transit to get to and from work in the late night and early morning hours. A portion of the funds ($496,000) is from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s “Lifeline” program, administered in collaboration with Alameda County Transportation Commission and Contra Costa Transportation Authority, which provides funding for transit services and programs for low income and disadvantaged residents. BART contributed $200,000 from its operating budget and $100,000 is expected from fares from the service.

]]>The one-year pilot program increases the options for late night commuters, providing new destinations and improved frequency of pre-dawn buses between San Francisco and the East Bay on weekends.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/ac-transit-bart-team-for-late-night-service.aspxN.Y. MTA adding 147 more MV-1shttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/3cIhUF3OOds/n-y-mta-adding-147-more-mv-1s.aspxThu, 11 Dec 2014 09:11:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/n-y-mta-adding-147-more-mv-1s.aspxNew York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) expanded its fleet of Mobility Ventures’ MV-1 wheelchair accessible vehicles with an additional order of 147 vehicles.

As the only American-made, purpose-built accessible vehicle, the MV-1 has the proven flexibility, safety and fuel economy to make it a perfect fit for the New York City Transportation Authority and other taxi and paratransit fleets across the country.

Delivery of these additional vehicles from the local MV-1 dealer, Alliance Bus Group, will bring the number of MV-1s in the MTA’s paratransit fleet to 398 out of a total of approximately 2,000 vehicles – one-fifth of the entire fleet. Replacing small buses with the MV-1 in the MTA fleet has saved the MTA millions of dollars thanks to the MV-1’s greater fuel economy and reduced maintenance needs. This delivery represents the third order the MTA has placed for MV-1s.

While other accessible vehicles are converted to accommodate ramps and wheelchairs, the MV-1 was designed specifically for those who use wheelchairs. With a built-in side-entry ramp and ample head room, the MV-1 is redefining accessible transportation options.

Mobility Ventures’ MV-1 meets all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards direct from the factory with no modifications. The company recently reported it successfully crash tested 17 vehicles at varying speeds, angles and positions according to federal new passenger vehicle safety regulations.

]]>Delivery of these additional vehicles from the local MV-1 dealer, Alliance Bus Group, will bring the number of MV-1s in the MTA’s paratransit fleet to 398 out of a total of approximately 2,000 vehicles – one-fifth of the entire fleet.AEMoreira042281http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/n-y-mta-adding-147-more-mv-1s.aspxCubic completes Australia's Opal smart card systemhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/v07asaMk6w8/cubic-completes-australia-s-opal-smart-card-system.aspxThu, 11 Dec 2014 09:04:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/cubic-completes-australia-s-opal-smart-card-system.aspxCubic Transportation Systems, a business segment of Cubic Corp., is celebrating the early completion of Sydney’s Opal contactless smart card ticketing system across all transport modes and connecting multiple operators.

On Dec. 1, the New South Wales Premier Mike Baird and Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian announced the Opal rollout on trains, buses, ferries and light rail for the greater Sydney region had been completed months ahead of schedule.

Minister Berejiklian said more people are using public transport thanks to Opal, with weekend patronage on trains up almost 12% and customers no longer standing in lengthy and frustrating Monday morning train station ticket queues every week.

The contract to build the new Electronic Ticketing System (ETS) — later branded as the Opal Card — was awarded to the Cubic-led Pearl consortium in 2010.

By December 2012, trials for the new smart card ticketing system began on a single ferry service in Sydney and the system was then rolled out progressively across the entire ferry, train, bus and light rail network. During that time 39,000 pieces of complex electronic devices were installed, linking 5,000 buses, 308 train stations, 40 ferry wharves and 23 light rail stops to the Cubic-designed central computer system that controls the ticketing network.

With completion of delivery, Cubic has commenced operation and maintenance of the Opal system under the 10-year services agreement that is part of the original contract.

More than 1.4 million Opal cards have been distributed and 20 million free trips taken under the weekly reward scheme where after eight paid journeys the rest are free and the daily fare is capped.

]]>More than 1.4 million Opal cards have been distributed and 20 million free trips taken under the weekly reward scheme where after eight paid journeys the rest are free and the daily fare is capped.Scottmacphersonhttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/cubic-completes-australia-s-opal-smart-card-system.aspxFTA releases $5M in tribal transit fundinghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/DxCBC_HmFmI/fta-releases-5m-in-tribal-transit-funding.aspxThu, 11 Dec 2014 07:44:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/fta-releases-5m-in-tribal-transit-funding.aspxThe Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced the availability of $5 million in competitive grant funds to enhance public transit service for American Indians, Alaska natives and other residents on rural tribal lands. Funding is provided through FTA’s Public Transportation on Indian Reservations Tribal Transit Program.

Through FTA’s Tribal Transit Program, competitively awarded FY2014 funds will allow tribes to continue operating or enhance existing transit service, launch new public transportation services, invest in new or replacement equipment, or plan for future transit needs. In FY2013, FTA funded 48 projects in 19 states totaling $5.04 million in discretionary grant funds to support public transportation services for tribal communities.

Under MAP-21, FTA’s Tribal Transit Program roughly doubled the amount of available funding from amounts awarded in prior years, but changed from an entirely discretionary program to a mostly formula-based one. FTA has provided approximately $50 million in FY2013 and FY2014 formula funds to 110 tribal transit programs in 26 states to help tribes continue to provide and enhance the transit services that many rural residents depend on every day.

]]>Competitively awarded FY2014 funds will allow tribes to continue operating or enhance existing transit service, launch new public transportation services, invest in new or replacement equipment, or plan for future transit needs.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/fta-releases-5m-in-tribal-transit-funding.aspxNew park and ride structure exemplifies Calif. agency’s sustainability commitmenthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/uM-a1weT83A/new-park-and-ride-structure-exemplifies-calif-agency-s-sustainability-commitment.aspxThu, 11 Dec 2014 07:44:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/new-park-and-ride-structure-exemplifies-calif-agency-s-sustainability-commitment.aspxParking structures operate long hours, sometimes all day and night. Some spaces are infrequently occupied and open to daylight, making additional lighting unnecessary. With energy costs rising, it is essential to be proactive when making energy-saving decisions to lessen costs and consumption, reduce maintenance and increase sustainability efforts.

Park and ride lots can help ease commutes by offering a convenient and safe location to transfer from a single passenger vehicle or bicycle to a carpool, vanpool or transit. Ridesharing or using transit saves time and money, while reducing traffic congestion and energy consumption. Public transportation is a safe and affordable way to commute that saves energy, reduces traffic congestion and helps the environment. It has many benefits for individuals and communities alike.

Parking Structures and Lighting

Security is one of the most critical issues facing the owners and operators of parking facilities today. Local government officials are also concerned about the security of these facilities — some of which are city owned or operated — because parking affects the economic viability of a community. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), which emphasizes the proper design and effective use of a created environment to reduce crime and enhance the quality of life, is applicable to parking facilities.

The single most important CPTED security feature is lighting. Good lighting deters crime and produces a more secure atmosphere. It is one of the few facility features that has been documented to reduce crime in parking facilities. Another important lighting consideration is glare, which reduces the contrast of an object against its background, making it difficult for the eye to perceive depth accurately. Glare is a potential hazard for all drivers; particularly senior citizens and other individuals with weak or impaired vision.

This five-level, 216,000-sq ft, 620-car parking structure is Foothill Transit’s first-ever agency-owned park and ride facility. The design embraces the materials and themes of the neighborhood, while promoting Foothill Transit’s goals of a dynamic visual experience for those entering the city by public transit. The facility has pedestrian plazas, secure bike lockers for local cyclists, LED lighting, and a large art mural by California artist Hannah Daly that decorates the north and south side of the structure. Future plans include 18 electric vehicle charging stations and rooftop solar panels.

The agency, which provides public transportation for the San Gabriel and Pomona valleys, utilizes park and ride lots owned by Caltrans or other cities but wanted to open its own to better serve the needs of Foothill Transit's customers.

“Increased safe and easy access to public transportation benefits everyone,” said Doug Tessitor, Foothill Transit’s board chair. “Each person on board is one less car on the freeway. And, this new Industry Park & Ride makes it possible for all of us to enjoy cleaner air and safer, less congested streets.”

LED Luminaires

Committed to sustainability and patrons’ safety was the driving force for installing 249 LED luminaires both in the structure and on the exterior perimeter walls. While no state or federal mandates regulated the lighting technology, management and the board want to be innovative and have an energy efficient structure.

“We are pleased with the results that include reduced energy consumption than if we installed traditional fixtures. One of our goals is to have low operational expense while improving visibility and safety for anyone using the Park & Ride structure, especially during evening hours.” said Sharlane Bailey, Foothill Transit director, facilities.

The LED luminaires were recommended by Walker Parking Consultants, the largest parking consulting and parking design firm in the world with 15 offices in the U.S., one office in Abu Dhabi, over 225 employees and more than 12,000 completed parking projects.

Foothill Transit has a strong commitment to safety and security, as well as wanting to maintain a pleasant aesthetic look to the structure. Bailey and the board view lighting as an important safety resource in the parking structure while also reducing its impact on the environment through the installation of LED luminaires. The luminaires selected provide superior glare control without compromising light levels, helping to ensure the safety and security of park and ride patrons.

Foothill Transit’s mission statement is to be the premier public transit provider committed to safety, courtesy, quality, responsiveness, efficiency and innovation. The design of the Park & Ride incorporates the elements of Foothill Transit’s mission statement.

Sustainability Commitment

Foothill Transit is committed to a sustainable environment and part of its mission statement is innovation. To that end, Foothill Transit has a total fleet of 331 buses, 316 of which are CNG powered and 15 fast-charge battery electric buses. Additionally, Foothill Transit is the first transit agency in the nation to electrify a bus route; line 291 utilizes nine fast-charge electric buses that serve the cities of Pomona and La Verne, Calif. To reduce GHG emissions, the agency implemented a solar array project at its two operating facilities located in Arcadia and Pomona, Calif.

In addition, Foothill Transit’s Arcadia facility has developed an Environmental & Sustainability Management System program and is ISO 14001 Certified. Foothill Transit is currently working on having the Pomona Operations & Maintenance facility certified under ISO standards.

Mark Bolton is regional sales manager with Kenall and may be reached at 425-999-0485 or mbolton@kenall.com. Gurnee, Ill.-based Kenall produces and supports high quality and durable lighting solutions for the most demanding environments.

]]>The five-level, 216,000-sq ft, 620-car parking structure is Foothill Transit’s first-ever agency-owned park and ride facility. The design embraces the materials and themes of the neighborhood, while promoting Foothill Transit’s goals of a dynamic visual experience for those entering the city by public transit.Paul Turang Photographyhttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/new-park-and-ride-structure-exemplifies-calif-agency-s-sustainability-commitment.aspxSupreme Court weighing Amtrak's power over U.S. railroadshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/lIeex2Bs-As/supreme-court-weighing-amtrak-s-power-over-u-s-railroads.aspxWed, 10 Dec 2014 09:36:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/supreme-court-weighing-amtrak-s-power-over-u-s-railroads.aspx

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Supreme Court appears divided on whether to reinstate performance standards Amtrak helped to create in 2010, which were negated last year by a federal appeals court, the USA Today reported.

How the court decides the issue could have a major impact on the quality of passenger and freight rail service, according to the report. If Amtrak can set standards, it can establish priority over the private freight railroads on the other side of the legal dispute. If it lacks such authority, freight service would have greater influence. For the full story, click here.

]]>If Amtrak can set standards, it can establish priority over the private freight railroads on the other side of the legal dispute. If it lacks such authority, freight service would have greater influence.jpmueller99http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/supreme-court-weighing-amtrak-s-power-over-u-s-railroads.aspxAECOM tapped for Minn. Metro's Southwest rail workhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/rZ9VpR1Xf1A/aecom-tapped-for-minn-metro-s-southwest-rail-work.aspxWed, 10 Dec 2014 08:29:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/aecom-tapped-for-minn-metro-s-southwest-rail-work.aspx

MINNEAPOLIS — The Metropolitan Council expects to award a $117 million contract to AECOM to carry out the rest of the design on Metro Transit’s $1.65 billion Southwest Light Rail Transit line, Finance & Commerce reported.

A team led by AECOM, which was the engineer of record on the 11-mile Green Line between Minneapolis and St. Paul, was the sole respondent to the council’s request for proposals for advanced design on the Southwest project. The proposed contract will go before the Met Council’s Transportation Committee and the full council this week. For the full story, click here.

]]>Company was the sole respondent to the council’s request for proposals for advanced design on the Southwest project. The proposed contract will go before the Met Council’s Transportation Committee and the full council this week.Michael Hickshttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/aecom-tapped-for-minn-metro-s-southwest-rail-work.aspxD.C. Metro, safety overseer reach testing agreement on new railcarshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/7qEswEw84B0/d-c-metro-safety-overseer-reach-testing-agreement-on-new-railcars.aspxWed, 10 Dec 2014 08:29:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/d-c-metro-safety-overseer-reach-testing-agreement-on-new-railcars.aspx

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro) reached an agreement with an independent safety overseer on the testing of the transit agency’s new generation of subway cars, ending a dispute that had threatened to delay the scheduled January debut of the cars, the Washington Post reported.

The chair of the Tri-State Oversight Committee, which monitors Metro’s operational safety, told the transit agency last month that she was not satisfied with the safety-certification process it was following as it prepared to put eight of the new railcars into passenger service early in 2015. For the full story, click here.

]]>The chair of the Tri-State Oversight Committee, which monitors Metro’s operational safety, told the transit agency last month that she was not satisfied with the safety-certification process it was following as it prepared to put eight of the new railcars into passenger service early in 2015.Larry Levinehttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/d-c-metro-safety-overseer-reach-testing-agreement-on-new-railcars.aspx150 protesters arrested after halting Amtrak, I-80 traffic in Berkeleyhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/nhrQWACKoS4/protesters-arrested-after-halting-amtrak-i-80-traffic-in-berkeley.aspxTue, 09 Dec 2014 10:37:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/protesters-arrested-after-halting-amtrak-i-80-traffic-in-berkeley.aspxBERKELEY, Calif. — The California Highway Patrol has announced that it arrested more than 150 protesters in Monday’s standoff that blocked traffic in both directions on Interstate Highway 80 in Berkeley for about 90 minutes, CBS SF News reported.

While demonstrators blocked traffic on both sides of Interstate 80, another group stood and sat on tracks, forcing an Amtrak train to stop at its Berkeley station last night around 8:30 p.m. As of 3:45 a.m., Capitol Corridor trains and San Joaquin trains are again operating, Amtrak officials said, according to the report.

The protest, a continuation of several in the Bay Area over the past few nights, was in response to a New York grand jury’s decision on Wednesday to not indict a white police officer in the chokehold death of Eric Garner, an unarmed black man, CBS SFNews reported.

]]>The protest, a continuation of several in the Bay Area over the past few nights, was in response to a New York grand jury’s decision on Wednesday to not indict a white police officer in the chokehold death of Eric Garner, an unarmed black man.Police block protesters from entering the I-80 freeway on-ramp at University Avenue. Photo: Dan Lurie via Flickrhttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/protesters-arrested-after-halting-amtrak-i-80-traffic-in-berkeley.aspxBC Transit liquidating hydrogen fuel-cell buseshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/PtPMmJ98t7U/bc-transit-liquidating-hydrogen-fuel-cell-buses.aspxTue, 09 Dec 2014 10:07:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/bc-transit-liquidating-hydrogen-fuel-cell-buses.aspx

VANCOUVER — B.C. Transit has plans to get rid of 20 hydrogen fuel-cell buses purchased and used for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Whistler, reported CBC News.

The agency is now taking bids on the buses and will either sell them off or have them converted to use diesel or other fuel. They have been in storage for several months. The decision to kill the fleet reportedly has Canada's hydrogen proponents fuming. For the full story, click here.

]]>The agency is now taking bids on the buses and will either sell them off or have them converted to use diesel or other fuel. They have been in storage for several months. The decision to kill the fleet reportedly has Canada's hydrogen proponents fuming.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/bc-transit-liquidating-hydrogen-fuel-cell-buses.aspxChicago breaks gound on $203M station projecthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/j0UjXSRxgkY/chicago-breaks-gound-on-203m-station-project.aspxTue, 09 Dec 2014 10:07:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/chicago-breaks-gound-on-203m-station-project.aspxThe Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) broke ground today on the Wilson Station Reconstruction Project, which will modernize the 91-year-old stationhouse and the station’s more than 100-year-old track structure. The revitalized station will serve as an economic anchor for the historic Uptown neighborhood by stimulating local business and promoting job growth.

The $203 million project is one of the largest station projects in CTA history and is the latest in a series of Red Line modernization projects to take place since Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced plans to update the city’s busiest rail line in 2011.

“The Red Line is the backbone of our transportation network, and making major investments, like the new Wilson Station, drives economic activity that will benefit the Uptown neighborhood and Chicago for years to come," Mayor Emanuel said. “In order to build the world-class transit our city needs, we must act now. By doing so, we’re building and investing in our economic future and creating thousands of new, good-paying jobs.”

When the Wilson project is complete in late 2017, riders will have a modern, spacious and more accessible station that will be a new transfer point for Red and Purple Line trains. The project will also relocate and reconstruct 2,200 feet of elevated tracks, signals and supporting infrastructure, eliminating slow zones and improving service reliability for customers, as well as providing a more pleasing street environment on Wilson Avenue and Broadway Street in the heart of Uptown.

The project, expected to generate more than 550 construction jobs, is the latest of several large-scale CTA improvements planned under Mayor Emanuel’s leadership.

The Wilson project is part of CTA’s Red Ahead program, a $1 billion comprehensive initiative to maintain, modernize and expand the Red Line — Chicago’s most-traveled rail line. State funding supports much of the $1 billion Red Ahead investment.

]]>The revitalized station will serve as an economic anchor for the historic Uptown neighborhood by stimulating local business and promoting job growth.JeremyAhttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/chicago-breaks-gound-on-203m-station-project.aspxReport: Effects of gas prices vary by modes, other factorshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/pXZLumV7v0M/report-effects-of-gas-prices-vary-by-modes-other-factors.aspxTue, 09 Dec 2014 10:07:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/report-effects-of-gas-prices-vary-by-modes-other-factors.aspxTransit agencies should prepare for ridership increases when gasoline prices increase, however, the net effect varies depending on the transit mode, the range of gasoline prices and response time, concludes the Mineta Transportation Institute’s latest peer-reviewed research report, “Net Effects of Gasoline Price Changes on Transit Ridership in U.S. Urban Areas.”

The study focused on 10 U.S. census urbanized areas from 2002 to 2011 and provided information that could help transit agencies prepare to accommodate higher transit travel needs through pricing strategies, general financing, capacity management and operations planning of transit services during times of substantial gasoline price increases. Principal investigator was Hiroyuki Iseki, PhD, working with Rubaba Ali, both from the University of Maryland, College Park. To view the free report, click here.

“While previous studies have been published, this report improved on the four specifications of panel data regression analysis and other factors to obtain more robust results that can be generalized,” Dr. Iseki said. “A ridership increase may be good news for transit agencies during the off-peak periods, but even a small percentage of ridership increase can require a substantial increase in service supply and facility capacity during the peak periods, when the service level is at or near the maximum supply capacity. If transit agencies can anticipate when and at what levels those ridership increases could reach, they can plan their services more accurately.”

The results of this study suggest that transit agencies should prepare for a potential increase in ridership during peak periods that can be generated by substantial gasoline price increases over $3 per gallon for bus and commuter rail modes, and over $4 per gallon for light rail.

The two main variables analyzed in this study are: (1) monthly average gasoline prices based on weekly prices of three different types of gasoline — regular, midgrade and premium — collected from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, and (2) monthly unlinked passenger trips obtained from the Federal Transit Administration's National Transit Database from January 2002 to December 2011 for Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco and Seattle.

In addition to several important variables related to transit service and demographics, the research team accounted for factors that were not comprehensively included in previous studies, such as the effects of number of recent immigrants, highway miles and unemployment rate.

The study also examines the endogeneity problem in regression analysis that potentially arises from the simultaneity issue between transit service supply and ridership, and estimates the short- and long-term effects of gasoline prices as well as the threshold effects of $3 and $4 marks on transit ridership for bus, light rail, heavy rail, commuter rail and these four modes combined.

]]>The study focused on 10 U.S. census urbanized areas from 2002 to 2011 and provided information that could help transit agencies prepare to accommodate higher transit travel needs through pricing strategies, general financing, capacity management and operations planning of transit services during times of substantial gasoline price increases.Courtesy IndyGohttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/report-effects-of-gas-prices-vary-by-modes-other-factors.aspxConductor stops teen from jumping in front of trainhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/P0cTiSuDW2s/conductor-stops-teen-from-jumping-in-front-of-train.aspxTue, 09 Dec 2014 10:07:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/conductor-stops-teen-from-jumping-in-front-of-train.aspx

NEW YORK — A Staten Island Railway conductor stopped and comforted a distraught teenager threatening to jump in front of a train, reported The Daily News.

The conductor saw the girl crying on the opposite platform while speaking on her cell phone about wanting to kill herself, prompting him to race to the other platform and call the rail control center so a dispatcher could alert railway motormen and summon the police. For the full story, click here.

]]>When he saw the girl crying on the opposite platform while speaking on her cell phone about wanting to kill herself, it prompted him to race to the other platform and call the rail control center so a dispatcher could alert railway motormen and summon the police.Sta2GUYZhttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/conductor-stops-teen-from-jumping-in-front-of-train.aspxCincinnati Metro appoints Ferrell as CEOhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/9alnaKtV61E/cincinnati-metro-appoints-ferrell-as-ceo.aspxTue, 09 Dec 2014 08:45:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/cincinnati-metro-appoints-ferrell-as-ceo.aspxThe Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA) has appointed Dwight Ferrell as Metro’s CEO and GM effective Jan. 5, 2015.

Ferrell most recently served as the County Manager of Fulton County, Ga., where he led more than 5,000 employees in the management of activities and operations of county departments. In addition, Ferrell developed, recommended and administered the county’s state and federal legislative agenda.

Ferrell is a recognized leader in the transit industry. For four years, he served as Deputy GM and COO of the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), managing day-to-day operations for the ninth largest transit system in the U.S.

Ferrell held leadership positions at some of the largest, multi-modal public transportation systems in the nation, including the Austin, Dallas, New Orleans and Philadelphia. For many years, he has been actively involved with the American Public Transportation Association, Conference of Minority Transportation Officials and Transportation Research Board. He participated in the Eno Center for Transit Leadership Executive Development Program and a graduate of Leadership Atlanta.

“We chose Dwight because of his tremendous experience in transit at some of the largest transit systems in the country. We believe he understands the importance and impact transit can have on emerging communities and economic development,” said Jason Dunn, Chair of the SORTA Board. “Dwight understands that we need the community, corporate partners and political stakeholders to be fully engaged and to do this will require relationship-building, trust, access, and leadership.”

Ferrelll holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration in Management from Huston-Tillotson University in Austin, Texas.

Metro is a non-profit, tax-funded public service of SORTA, providing about 17 million rides per year.

]]>Dwight Ferrell, who most recently served as the County Manager of Fulton County, Ga., also served as deputy GM/COO for MARTA for four years.Cincinnati Metrohttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/cincinnati-metro-appoints-ferrell-as-ceo.aspxUniv. of Md. student groups push for hybrid buseshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/lAzHOGQws2o/univ-of-md-student-groups-push-for-hybrid-buses.aspxMon, 08 Dec 2014 08:59:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/univ-of-md-student-groups-push-for-hybrid-buses.aspxCOLLEGE PARK, Md. — The University of Maryland’s student government groups are starting to discuss the costs behind purchasing hybrid buses, The Diamondback reported.

The Department of Transportation Services (DOTS) currently has four hybrid buses and buys about eight new standard buses each year, DOTS Director David Allen told the paper.

The hybrid buses cost about $800,000 apiece, almost twice the cost of a standard bus, Allen said. If DOTS purchased all new hybrid buses, the price could force an increase in mandatory student fees by about $10 per person, he said to The Diamondback.

]]>The Department of Transportation Services currently has four hybrid buses and buys about eight new standard buses each year, DOTS Director David Allen told the paper.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/univ-of-md-student-groups-push-for-hybrid-buses.aspxStudent group aims for inter-UC campus bus systemhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/gRzj_DSWg8o/student-group-aims-for-inter-uc-campus-bus-system.aspxMon, 08 Dec 2014 08:42:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/student-group-aims-for-inter-uc-campus-bus-system.aspxBERKELY, Calif. — An ASUC (Associated Students of University of California) senator is planning an inter-UC campus bus system that, if created, would provide students with convenient and inexpensive transportation among the nine campuses, The Daily Californian reported.

The ASUC aims to expand upon the existing Berkeley-Davis shuttle, a part of the UC Fleet Services. The shuttle charges $11 for a one-way ticket and uses university-owned buses. The ASUC is still determining the frequency and ticket costs of the new system but will likely make them similar to those of the existing shuttle. They have yet to determine sources or metrics of funding for the project, according to the report.

]]>The Associated Students of the University of California aims to expand upon the existing Berkeley-Davis shuttle, a part of the UC Fleet Services. The shuttle charges $11 for a one-way ticket and uses university-owned buses.UC Berkeley campushttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/student-group-aims-for-inter-uc-campus-bus-system.aspxFresno State students trend toward alternative transportationhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/FFc8RUw6Ym4/fresno-state-students-trend-toward-alternative-transportation.aspxMon, 08 Dec 2014 08:11:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/fresno-state-students-trend-toward-alternative-transportation.aspxFRESNO, Calif. — More students are looking for ways to get to Fresno State other than the traditional four-wheeled automobile, The Collegian reported.

This trend isn’t just about students being actively aware of their environment either. Fresno State parking and transportation manager Thomas Gaffery said it’s happening in part because the department is making efforts to bring students to campus in alternative ways.

After finding that about 10 percent of students live within a mile of campus, Traffic Operations has made an effort to get those students to campus without taking single-passenger trips by looking into improving bicycle access, creating specialized parking for carpooling and improving convenience of buses.

]]>After finding that about 10% of students live within a mile of campus, Traffic Operations is looking into improving bicycle access, creating specialized parking for carpooling and improving convenience of buses.Fresno State University<br />&amp;nbsp;http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/fresno-state-students-trend-toward-alternative-transportation.aspxTime is On Our Side With Automated Vehicleshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/IQFT6NShKfM/time-is-on-our-side-with-automated-vehicles.aspxPaul MackieFri, 05 Dec 2014 14:16:52 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/blog/transit-dispatches/story/2014/12/time-is-on-our-side-with-automated-vehicles.aspx(This story by Jeremy Holmes, program director of RIDE Solutions in Central and Southwest Virginia, was original published by Mobility Lab.)

A man climbs into the cab of a tractor trailer, hauling himself into the massive driver’s seat and shutting the door behind him as if settling into a captain’s chair.

The steering wheel is massive, evoking the wheel of a mighty sailing ship even at it protruds from a dashboard covered in electronic controls and sleek digital displays. The driver engages the engine and, with a few button presses, the truck rumbles to life.

Watching the scenery pass by out the driver’s side window, the man presses another button on the dashboard and, amazingly, his seat swivels clockwise, away from the window. The seat clicks into place, now facing a full 90 degrees away from the windshield, and the driver closes his eyes. The truck is still barreling along the highway.

As this video played behind her, Dr. Myra Blanco of the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute stood at the podium in front of approximately 1,000 attendees of the recent Commonwealth of Virginia’s Governor’s Transportation Conference. People increasingly want to be supervisors of their vehicles,” she said to the crowd, “not operators.”

Blanco’s presentation was a glimpse into the future of automated vehicles:• Tracing the development of the technology with basic automation like cruise control• Through the advancements currently being made by Google and other companies, in which driverless vehicles have been successfully road tested in traffic environments as hostile as Washington D.C., and• Glimpsing a future of fully automated vehicles that could drive themselves with or without a human in the car – a future of robot taxi services and highways without gridlock and accidents caused by human error.

Her review of the technology and its trends was remarkable, painting a picture of self-driving vehicles becoming dominant in only a generation or two. And while the benefits are many, from reduced congestion to increased mobility and improved safety, her comments on why we are heading in this direction – and what it says about our transportation choices now – were less science fiction and more basic time management.

The evolving attitude towards driving dovetails with, and sheds further light on, trends we have already seen in the commuter transportation industry:• The historically low rates of driver licensing among teens and car ownership among those in their early 20s• The return to urban-style living, and• The rapid growth of the sharing economy.

While some of these trends may be driven more by economics than lifestyle choices, the investments being made in, and excitement surrounding, automated-vehicle technology emphasize that quality of time as a key factor in quality of life is a growing concern among people.

The cost of congestion and long commutes – up to 3.6 billion hours behind the wheel, 5.7 billion gallons of fuel burned and nearly $70 billion in lost productivity – has long been assumed as the necessary investment needed to live in an affordable suburb, or to access the kinds of jobs that tend to cluster in major metro areas. When our only distractions during those long drives were radio stations, books on tape, or – if we were lucky – a carpool partner, it was easier to accept this cost as unavoidable. After all, what were the alternatives?

Now that technology blurs the line between home and office, where social connection, professional productivity, and even entertainment can be carried out on a smartphone or tablet wherever wireless exists, there suddenly are alternatives. Indeed, drivers are already engaged in those alternatives, as another Virginia Tech study shows that folks behind the wheel spend 10 percent of their time doing something else – behavior that results in an up to 700 percent increased chance of crashing.

What this means for the commuter-transportation industry is that, while full automation technology may be a generation away, the need is already here, and many communities already have the tools available to meet it.

We may not have Google Cars, but what is transit if not transportation that is supervised rather than operated? For major metro areas plagued by long commutes, messaging that concentrates on merely reducing travel time, rather than improving the quality of that travel time altogether, may not be enough.

The implication for smaller metros is even greater. In the Roanoke region, where Virginia’s State of the Commute survey shows that most drivers are pretty satisfied with their 20 minute-a-day commute, the coming generation of workers may look at even that 20 minutes as wasted time if they have to spend it behind the wheel rather than at the keyboard or on their phone. In similarly sized areas, where transit is not as robust and often can’t compete with driving alone on travel time, the emphasis on quality of time may mean that a longer trip, if it’s more productive, is more appealing than a shorter trip. Indeed, the Smart Way commuter bus that connects downtown Roanoke to nearby Virginia Tech in Blacksburg has been an enormously successful service, even though its trip time is almost double that of a drive-alone trip. The bus’s on-board wifi and I-81’s reputation as an accident-prone, delay-plagued stretch of freeway no doubt contribute to this success.

Marketing the benefits of quality of time is nothing new to the transportation demand management industry. We’ve been talking productivity, deferred trips to the gym as a benefit of bike commuting, and similar concepts for a while now. However, the coming world of automated cars puts new pressure on the industry. A world of self-driving, sci-fi vehicles is still a vision of freeways and parking lots jammed full with cars, with all the same environmental and social concerns that we face today.

At the end of Blanco’s presentation, someone at a neighboring table said, “People view driving as getting in the way of their texting, and not the other way around.” TDM agencies have always known that most people view driving as a necessary evil, but simply couldn’t imagine a world without it. That world is here, and along with congestion mitigation and improving mobility, it brings with it new challenges of distracted driving and decreased safety.Our industry has a unique opportunity to use our expertise in behavior change and marketing to address these challenges now, rather than waiting for science fiction to come and save us.

]]>A man climbs into the cab of a tractor trailer, hauling himself into the massive driver’s seat and shutting the door behind him as if settling into a captain’s chair.
The steering wheel is massive, evoking the wheel of a mighty sailing ship even at it protruds from a dashboard covered in electronic controls and sleek digital displays. The driver engages the engine and, with a few button presses, the truck rumbles to life.
Watching the scenery pass by out the driver’s side window, the man pPhoto Karla Lopez via Flickrhttp://www.metro-magazine.com/blog/transit-dispatches/story/2014/12/time-is-on-our-side-with-automated-vehicles.aspxOhio agency adds real-time bus trackinghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/0tBQ3PiXbYU/ohio-agency-adds-real-time-bus-tracking.aspxFri, 05 Dec 2014 09:43:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/ohio-agency-adds-real-time-bus-tracking.aspxATHENS, Ohio — Athens Public Transit will offer real-time bus tracking services to riders through DoubleMap Inc. beginning this winter, reported The Athens Messenger.

Athens Public Transit is the second local bus system to sign an agreement with DoubleMap after Ohio University CATS launched tracking in August. Bus tracking is currently being tested and will be fully live in January, which will be in time for Ohio University’s spring semester. For the full story, click here.

]]>Athens Public Transit is the second local bus system to sign an agreement with DoubleMap after Ohio University CATS launched tracking in August.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/ohio-agency-adds-real-time-bus-tracking.aspxVia Rail looking to P3s to build dedicated track networkhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/KlLyF6g_Ob0/via-rail-looking-to-p3s-to-build-dedicated-track-network.aspxFri, 05 Dec 2014 09:43:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/via-rail-looking-to-p3s-to-build-dedicated-track-network.aspx

MONTREAL — Via Rail Canada’s President/CEO Yves Desjardins-Siciliano discussed the agency’s plan to build its own set of dedicated tracks using private equity with the Financial Post.

Currently, 90% of the track VIA uses is owned by Canadian National Railway Co. Via’s first priority is acquiring track in the busy corridor between Quebec City and Windsor, Ont., which accounts for 90% of the railway’s volume. For the full story, click here.

]]>Currently, 90% of the track VIA uses is owned by Canadian National Railway Co. Via’s first priority is acquiring track in the busy corridor between Quebec City and Windsor, Ont., which accounts for 90% of the railway’s volume.Lee Downhttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/via-rail-looking-to-p3s-to-build-dedicated-track-network.aspxOre.'s Lane Transit adds light to 15 sheltershttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/C-_p0qbIvOM/ore-s-lane-transit-adds-light-to-15-shelters.aspxFri, 05 Dec 2014 09:43:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/ore-s-lane-transit-adds-light-to-15-shelters.aspxEugene, Ore.-based Lane Transit District (LTD) recently transformed 15 bus shelters that did not previously have lighting by installing renewable-energy-powered lighting systems.

In a recent rider’s survey, LTD’s riders stated that safety at bus stops was very important to them, and these new lighting units create a safer environment by illuminating both the shelters and the surrounding areas. Another benefit to customers is that having the stops illuminated makes it easier for bus drivers to see riders who are waiting at a stop in the dark, generating less missed buses.

In order for a bus stop to be considered for a bus shelter, a minimum of 30 riders per day must utilize the stop.

“LTD currently has more than 180 shelters in the system, and access to electricity has been a challenge in some locations,” said Andy Vobora, LTD director, customer services and planning. “This solar-lighting project is very exciting because it provides the illumination that our customers want and it provides LTD with a solution that is environmentally friendly and cost effective.”

This lighting project is an ideal way to make taking the bus more pleasant; make walking and biking safer; and make neighborhood streets better by providing our community with light in a clean, green and practical way.

]]>In a recent rider’s survey, LTD’s riders stated that safety at bus stops was very important to them, and these new lighting units create a safer environment by illuminating both the shelters and the surrounding areas.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/ore-s-lane-transit-adds-light-to-15-shelters.aspxIowa officials eyeing intercity bus service, ridematchinghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/JK7y-hFuezU/iowa-officials-eyeing-intercity-bus-service-ridematching.aspxFri, 05 Dec 2014 09:39:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/iowa-officials-eyeing-intercity-bus-service-ridematching.aspxLINN and JOHNSON COUNTIES, Iowa — An express intercity bus service connecting Cedar Rapids, North Liberty, Coralville and Iowa City, and public ridematching software to better facilitate car and van pools are two preferred improvements identified in a preliminary draft of a yearlong study on commuting in Eastern Iowa, KCRG TV9 News reported.

The two-way intercity bus service would be geared to working commuters, offering power outlets and wireless Internet, said Brent Paulsen, technology and research manager for the Iowa Department of Transportation.

The Iowa DOT is working with HNTB, a Kansas City-based architectural and engineering firm, to finalize the Iowa Commuter Transportation Study and submit it to the Legislature by Dec. 15, the report said.

The commuter study looked at a variety of options for public intercity bus service, such as rides every 15 minutes or one trip per peak time. More trips would require more buses and increase costs, while fewer trips would save money but limit participation, Paulsen told TV9 News.

While executives hoped to sell 10 to 15 of the streetcars per year and create hundreds of jobs, instead, it’s delivered just 18 cars in the last six years to three customers — Portland, Washington DC and Tucson, according to the report.

Company executives told KOIN 6 News they will make more streetcars — but right now they don’t even have any potential orders on the table. United Streetcar President Kevin Clarke is leaving the company at the end of this week.

]]>Company executives told KOIN 6 News they will make more streetcars — but right now they don’t even have any potential orders on the table.United Streetcarhttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/united-streetcar-in-hibernation-top-exec-leaving.aspxSolar roadways, 'Internet of Things' to shape highways of the futurehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/cQ7YCphJU6E/solar-roadways-internet-of-things-to-shape-highways-of-the-future.aspxThu, 04 Dec 2014 10:59:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/solar-roadways-internet-of-things-to-shape-highways-of-the-future.aspxFuture highways will be made from solar materials and will be governed by sophisticated technologies that communicate with cars, road infrastructure and GPS systems, according to a new report.

Arup’s Future of Highways report considers the consequences of themes including rapid urbanisation up to 2050 and how climate change, resource depletion and changes in human behaviour will shape our roads in the future.

“Anticipating and researching future trends will help us move towards a connected, low-carbon future, where mobility solutions put users at the heart of design and potential challenges are addressed as early as possible. The changes that this report suggests will provide safer, more reliable and more environmentally friendly highway infrastructure for generations to come," says Tony Marshall, Global Highways Leader, Arup

Surfaces could be replaced with advanced solar panels that would generate clean and renewable power, and wirelessly charge electric cars as they are driving or are parked. The panels would also contain LED lighting and heating elements to melt snow.

As well as highways evolving, the report foresees that patterns of ownership will change in the coming years, with commuters more likely to purchase access to a vehicle rather than the vehicle itself. While the number of motorized vehicles on our roads is expected to increase by three per cent annually until 2030, the use of non-motorized transport such as bikes and walking is also due to rise in popularity. Cities worldwide have already recognised this trend and have started to implement strategies to reduce congestion and support the health of their citizens through various cycle and walking schemes.

Electric cars are anticipated to become commonplace on the roads of the future as developments in material science will dramatically improve the performance of batteries and the potential for increased electricity storage. Fully-automated navigation systems will also enable roads to be populated by driverless cars which could change the design and operation of highways, and provide safety and environmental benefits.

Vehicles will become increasingly ‘intelligent’ and ‘self-aware’: a combination of the connected vehicle and the Internet of Things will enable vehicles to broadcast and receive information on traffic, speed, weather and potential safety hazards. As a result, cars will be able to travel closer together and react more quickly to variables around them. This will open the market to people previously unable to operate vehicles such as the elderly or disabled.

]]>As well as highways evolving, the report foresees that patterns of ownership will change in the coming years, with commuters more likely to purchase access to a vehicle rather than the vehicle itself.Arup<br />&amp;nbsp;http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/solar-roadways-internet-of-things-to-shape-highways-of-the-future.aspxPaul Revere Transportation wins Grand Canyon contracthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/g_cIQ8v2RbQ/paul-revere-transportation-wins-grand-canyon-contract.aspxThu, 04 Dec 2014 08:00:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/paul-revere-transportation-wins-grand-canyon-contract.aspxBoston-based Paul Revere Transportation (PRT) was awarded a five-year contract to operate and manage bus shuttle service at the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona through Nov. 30, 2019 by the U.S. National Park Service.

PRT has operated the Grand Canyon Visitor Transportation System since January 2000. The service provides free shuttle transportation to visitors at one of the world’s most recognizable destinations. The Grand Canyon National Park Transportation System connects visitors with viewpoints, campgrounds, lodges, restaurants, the Yavapai Geology Museum and Grand Canyon Visitor Center, along more than 25 miles of the canyon’s most scenic vistas and attractions.

PRT provided visitors with more than 6.1 million passenger trips in 2013. PRT has worked closely with the Grand Canyon National Park to accommodate a significant surge in ridership during recent years. The shuttle service has grown by more 1.5 million visitor trips between 2008 and 2013. The shuttle service features compressed natural gas vehicles and includes accessibility for wheelchairs and bicycles.

In addition to ensuring consistent, reliable service, PRT’s Grand Canyon management team has been recognized for an outstanding safety record for passengers and employees. The service has been rated among the safest workplaces in Northern Arizona since 2010.

]]>The service provides free shuttle transportation to visitors at one of the world’s most recognizable destinations.Tomascastelazo<br />&amp;nbsp;http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/paul-revere-transportation-wins-grand-canyon-contract.aspxNJ Transit employees to take customer relations traininghttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/UCN5zHYOqo4/nj-transit-employees-to-take-customer-relations-training.aspxThu, 04 Dec 2014 08:00:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/nj-transit-employees-to-take-customer-relations-training.aspx

NEWARK, N.J. — Prompted by issues brought up by commuters on social media and shared with NJ TRANSIT, some rail employees who deal with commuters will find themselves back in the classroom for a two-day customer relations training course, reported NJ Advance Media.

Principles to be covered in the program, which will launch in early 2015, include employees understanding their role, communicating clearly, non-verbal communication, effective listening, conflict resolution and how to deal with difficult customers. For the full story, click here.

The Federal Government has long required motor carriers to maintain certain levels of financial responsibility, either through insurance, a bond or other financial security, as a means to protect the public in the event of a crash.

An April 2014 report to Congress found that while catastrophic motor carrier crashes are rare, the costs for resulting severe and critical injuries can exceed $1 million; current insurance limits do not adequately cover these costs, which are primarily due to increases in medical expenses and other crash-related costs.

To provide a basis for proposing changes to insurance rules and estimating those impacts in the future, the FMCSA is seeking additional information on 26 questions. Whenever possible, commenters should provide data in support of their responses.

FMCSA recognizes that an individual commenter may choose to respond to all of the issues or only a subset, based on his or her interest or area of expertise. To view a copy of the ANPRM and instructions for submitting comments, click here.

]]>An April 2014 Report to Congress found that while catastrophic motor carrier crashes are rare, the costs for resulting severe and critical injuries can exceed $1 million; current insurance limits do not adequately cover these costs, which are primarily due to increases in medical expenses and other crash-related costs.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/fmcsa-seeking-comments-on-revising-financial-responsibility-levels.aspxSouth America's first subway turns 101http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/8jfERZP4tSg/south-america-s-first-subway-turns-101.aspxWed, 03 Dec 2014 09:21:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/south-america-s-first-subway-turns-101.aspxBUENOS AIRES — South America's first subway system turned 101 years old this week. The Buenos Aires subway system, known as Subte, debuted December 1, 1913. Originally spanning 2.1 miles, the first rail cars took Porteños between Plaza de Mayo and Plaza Miserere along a single line. Today, Subte has 83 stations along six different lines and an annual ridership of 310 million, CityLab reported.

Many of those very same first trains, Belgian-made "La Brugeoise" cars, stayed in service until mid-January 2013, replaced with modern subway cars and just missing out on a full 100 years of service, according to the report.

Two of the 78 cars were restored and put on display at Plaza de Mayo to commemorate Subte's centenary but the rest of the La Brugeoise cars sat exposed outside a rail yard until last March resulting in damage from vandalism.

]]>Originally spanning 2.1 miles, the first rail cars took Porteños between Plaza de Mayo and Plaza Miserere along a single line. Today, Subte has 83 stations along six different lines and an annual ridership of 310 million.Buenos Aires Subte station entrance - You Need Style - Flickr 2008http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/south-america-s-first-subway-turns-101.aspxChina plans to re-bid Mexico high-speed rail projecthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/x0AdgHPmhZg/china-plans-to-re-bid-mexico-high-speed-rail-project.aspxWed, 03 Dec 2014 09:21:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/china-plans-to-re-bid-mexico-high-speed-rail-project.aspxBEIJING — China plans to tender again for Mexico's $3.75 billion high-speed rail project after the Latin American nation abruptly canceled its earlier win, one of the firms in a Chinese-led consortium that had bid and a source close to the bid said, Reuters reported.

Mexico revoked the contract awarded to the consortium on Nov. 7 after opposition lawmakers claimed it was fixed. The consortium's bid was uncontested. The Latin American nation said it would re-run the tender in late November under the same terms, the report said.

]]>The Latin American nation said it would re-run the tender in late November under the same terms, the report said.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/china-plans-to-re-bid-mexico-high-speed-rail-project.aspxMontreal launches new commuter rail linehttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/o-TY9TKxtg8/montreal-launches-new-commuter-rail-line.aspxWed, 03 Dec 2014 09:10:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/montreal-launches-new-commuter-rail-line.aspxMontreal’s Agence métropolitaine de transport’s (AMT) new commuter train line, the Mascouche line, began service.

Québec’s Minister of Transport and the Minister responsible for the Montréal region, Robert Poëti; the Chair of the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal (CMM) and Mayor of Montréal, Denis Coderre; and AMT President/CEO, Nicolas Girard, were on hand on the platforms to welcome the train’s first passengers.

“The Mascouche line’s entry into service is great news for public transit,” said Mr. Poëti. “Residents of the eastern part of the city and the northeastern periphery — around 700,000 people — now have much-anticipated public transit service that brings the suburbs closer to downtown. It was a project unanimously supported by elected officials and partners working directly or indirectly on it. Mascouche to Montréal in 65 minutes is hard to beat. Some 900 fewer vehicles will be on the road annually as a result, making a major contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

Thirty multi-level cars and five locomotives were acquired for the Mascouche line. The multi-level cars are ultramodern and comfortable. Their unique design allows them to run along the entire AMT network; the cars have two levels, 142 ergonomic seats, and a two-way communication system between customers and crew.

Additionally, as part of a new approach, customer service agents will be aboard each of the departing trains on the Mascouche line to handle communication and answer customers’ questions. The Mascouche line can accommodate 5,500 passengers at rush hour, almost 30% of which currently use their cars.

]]>The Agence métropolitaine de transport's new Masouche line connects passengers with Montreal in 65 minutes and includes 30 multi-level cars and five locomotives.Mtlfiredudehttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/montreal-launches-new-commuter-rail-line.aspxChinese firms looking to bid on Ansaldo's rail subsidiarieshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/3hq7nAND5_k/chinese-firms-looking-to-bid-on-ansaldo-s-rail-subsidiaries.aspxWed, 03 Dec 2014 09:10:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/chinese-firms-looking-to-bid-on-ansaldo-s-rail-subsidiaries.aspxGENOA, Italy — Two Chinese companies are considering a bid for Finmeccanica's Ansaldo rail subsidiaries, which hold a $1.4 billion contract to build and operate the trains for Honolulu's rail transit project, with the company's board asking the company’s CEO to continue talks over the sale, reported the Pacific Business News.

Sources close to the matter said that Chinese technology firm Insigma is teaming with Chengdu construction equipment company Xinzhu to bid on the Ansaldo units, to possibly compete with a bid made by Japan's Hitachi. For the full story, click here.

]]>Sources close to the matter say that Chinese technology firm Insigma is teaming with Chengdu construction equipment company Xinzhu to bid on the Ansaldo units, to possibly compete with a bid made by Japan's Hitachi.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/chinese-firms-looking-to-bid-on-ansaldo-s-rail-subsidiaries.aspxAlstom joint venture wins Mexican rail system contracthttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/32DkmID5O18/alstom-joint-venture-wins-mexican-rail-system-contract.aspxWed, 03 Dec 2014 09:10:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/alstom-joint-venture-wins-mexican-rail-system-contract.aspxAlstom, in association with CPVM, a company from OHL group, was awarded a contract by the Secretariat of Communications and Transport of Mexico to supply a full system for Line 3 of Guadalajara metro.

Alstom’s share in the contract is worth around $297 million. The line is approximately 12 miles long and will run through Zapopan, Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque municipalities in the State of Jalisco. It will provide fast, comfortable and safe transportation to 233,000 passengers daily.

The company will supply 18 Metropolis trains, the communication systems, the high-voltage and traction substations, the traffic control systems based on Urbalis 400 and Alstom’s CBTC system. Widely proven and constantly upgraded, Urbalis represents the ideal CBTC solution for urban transit operators aiming to maximize performance and capacity and who require traditional interlocking systems for operational needs.

Alstom’s Metropolis is a world leading, proven, safe and reliable train that serves many of the great global cities including Panama, Singapore, Sao Paulo, Shanghai and Amsterdam with more than 10 years of operational experience. More than 4000 Metropolis cars have been sold worldwide.

Metropolis for Guadalajara has reached the highest standards in the environmental field. The energy consumption is reduced thanks to the train’s light weight, the optimization of the traction performance and the energy recovery.

]]>The line is approximately 12 miles long and will run through Zapopan, Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque municipalities in the State of Jalisco. It will provide fast, comfortable and safe transportation to 233,000 passengers daily.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/alstom-joint-venture-wins-mexican-rail-system-contract.aspxFed pledges nearly $1B for MBTA's Green Line extensionhttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/Of9pXF25j8c/fed-pledges-nearly-1b-for-mbta-s-green-line-extension.aspxWed, 03 Dec 2014 08:11:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/fed-pledges-nearly-1b-for-mbta-s-green-line-extension.aspxBOSTON — The federal government this week pledged nearly $1 billion to help finance the expansion of the Massachussets Bay Area Transportation Authority's (MBTA) Green Line from Cambridge into Somerville and Medford, a major boost for the long-promised transit project, The Boston Globe reported.

The commitment marks a major turning point for a frequently delayed expansion that advocates say will spur economic development, transform communities, and give commuters a one-ride transit option from as far away as the Tufts Medford campus into downtown Boston. The first portion of the expansion is now scheduled to be completed by 2017, officials said, and the remainder by 2020, according to the report.

The MBTA estimated the expansion would create about 140 design jobs, 700 construction jobs, and 140 jobs in ongoing operations, the report said.

]]>The first portion of the expansion is now scheduled to be completed by 2017, officials said, and the remainder by 2020, according to the report.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/fed-pledges-nearly-1b-for-mbta-s-green-line-extension.aspxKeolis names Hinchcliffe head of light rail for N. Americahttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/bWNt1XHfCc0/keolis-names-hinchcliffe-head-of-light-rail-for-n-america.aspxTue, 02 Dec 2014 11:08:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/keolis-names-hinchcliffe-head-of-light-rail-for-n-america.aspxKeolis, a leading provider of passenger transportation services throughout the U.S. and Canada, has named Robert Hinchcliffe director of light rail transit for its North American operations.

Hinchcliffe will be responsible for developing and managing light rail transit systems in the region, including the GrandLinq in Ontario, as well as business development opportunities across North America.

“Robert’s experience and commitment to serving customer needs a great complement to the mission and goals of Keolis,” said Eric Asselin, executive VP/GM of Keolis’ North American operations. “He will be an integral part of our North American senior leadership team as we look to expand our light rail ventures in the region.”

A native of Yorkshire, England, Hinchcliffe brings more than 24 years of experience in engineering design, manufacture, project management and business development for complex projects around the world. Before joining Keolis, Hinchcliffe spent 18 years with Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF) managing projects in Europe, Hong Kong and the U.S. He has spent a significant portion of his career facilitating and developing transportation services on multiple continents and successfully building strong multifunctional international teams.

“With an ever-increasing need for swift, safe and reliable transportation, North America provides a rich environment for light rail development. I’m eager for the opportunity to develop and improve new and existing systems, creating more enjoyable commutes for our customers in the U.S. and Canada,” Hinchcliffe said.

]]>Robert Hinchcliffe will be responsible for developing and managing light rail transit systems in the region, including the GrandLinq in Ontario, as well as business development opportunities across North America.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/keolis-names-hinchcliffe-head-of-light-rail-for-n-america.aspxNew S.F. startup seen as 'love child of Uber and bus service'http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/iCJCvSUTUsA/new-s-f-startup-seen-as-love-child-of-uber-and-bus-service-.aspxTue, 02 Dec 2014 11:05:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/new-s-f-startup-seen-as-love-child-of-uber-and-bus-service-.aspxSAN FRANCISCO — If you were to create a hybrid of a public bus service and Uber, you’d get Loup, so says a post on re/code by Liz Gannes.

The startup, which touts itself as "A new way to get from point A to point B. For 1/3 the price of other car service companies," runs black town cars on a set route throughout San Francisco, and riders book trips on their phones.

Its founders aim to address the inherent weaknesses of the public transit infrastructure, which is strained, often unpredictable and inflexible, said Gannes. And while companies like Lyft and Uber are experimenting with pairing passengers to share rides that overlap and split the price, Loup asserts that a better and more scalable carpooling approach might be establishing routes that passengers can rely on.

Loup is at least the third San Francisco startup to try something similar in the past year. That’s even down to linking up the same neighborhoods, with Loup’s first route paralleling the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency’s 30x bus through the Marina, North Beach and downtown, according to the post.

]]>The startup, which touts itself as "A new way to get from point A to point B. For 1/3 the price of other car service companies," runs black town cars on a set route throughout San Francisco, and riders book trips on their phones.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/new-s-f-startup-seen-as-love-child-of-uber-and-bus-service-.aspxStartups tap technology to create 'smart routes' for greater mobility optionshttp://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MetroMagazine-Stories/~3/EVZ-1qQUc_M/transportation-startups-create-smart-routes-.aspxTue, 02 Dec 2014 10:50:00 PSThttp://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/transportation-startups-create-smart-routes-.aspxTechnology is playing a key role in changing public transportation in cities. With smart phones, sharing our location can be as easy as logging into an app. And, pop-up transit companies like Bridj and Shift are taking advantage of this data and creating a flexible transit system that comes to the customer instead of vice versa.

For Boston-based Bridj, the idea of pop-up transit started in the dorm room of Middleberry College student Matthew George. Bridj stemmed from a transit network George designed to take college students home for breaks called BreakShuttle. The system is now the largest provider of collegiate academic break transit services in the country.

“He [George] had experience in the transit realm after BreakShuttle, and then realized there was this opportunity within cities,” said Ryan Kelly, marketing manager of Bridj.

However, George isn’t the only one on the Bridj team with transit experience, Gabe Klein, former head of the transportation departments in Chicago and Washington, D.C., joined the team as the company’s chief operating officer earlier in 2014. Also leading the company’s data team is former Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) Director of Research and Analytics David Block-Schachter.

Bridj has been in its beta testing phase for a few months, but has its Jitney License in Boston and Brookline and just got the green light for the Cambridge area. With $4 million in funding from Atlas Ventures, NextView Ventures, Suffolk Equity, Freshtracks Capital and a group of angel investors who were also early investors in ZipCar, the company’s momentum will only continue to build.

On the other side of the country, is Shift. Like Bridj, Shift started from another venture. Project 100, aka Shift, caught media attention after Las Vegas venture capitalist Tony Hsieh invested a whopping $10 million in the startup. Another noteworthy part of the company was the acquisition of 12 Tesla Model S vehicles. Although the flashy sedans are part of Shift’s fleet, Zach Ware, founder/ CEO of Shift, insists that focusing on the Teslas would be like “focusing on the carpet order for a massive art museum.”

Both companies have an algorithm combining data from users and social media to create routes in real time and pick up passengers on the fly.

For Bridj, bus routes fluctuate based on demand and traffic. Once a user has requested a pickup location and destination, Bridj lets the customer know where to meet based on the amount of commuter responses, and sends one of its 14-passenger Mercedes-Benz Sprinters on routes in four areas of Boston.

The premise of Shift is slightly different from Bridj’s, in that the choice of transportation varies by what the customer needs to do. “The nature of mobility is different every time,” Ware said. Also, Shift is based off a monthly membership.When a customer logs onto the app, the user answers a series of questions about their trip like how far they plan to go, and if they have a preference for how they want to get there whether it be bike, car or shuttle.

Although the concept sounds similar to Lyft or Uber, Ware and Kelly emphasized that neither companies inspired Shift or Bridj.

“Lyft and Uber were trying to solve the problem of the taxi industry, but we are trying to figure out how people are moving around in the city,” said Kelly. “We think in order to keep up with the pace of city populations we need a dynamic transit system that doesn’t cost a lot to build.”

Public transit's response

Despite the heavy resistance from taxis to Uber and Lyft, Joe Pesaturo, communications director at MBTA says they are pleased that Bridj will make it easier for some people to make connections with the MBTA subway system.Pesaturo does acknowledge MBTA offers Boston area commuters more options at a lower cost.

“Bridj’s fares are more in line with taxi fares. The vast majority of public transit users can‘t afford to pay for taxicabs every day,” Pesaturo said.

Placing the fares side-by-side, MBTA charges $1.60 for adult riders, while the current price for Bridj wavers from $1 to $3. Ware says fares will be slightly more than the subway but less than taking a cab. Shift hasn’t run into any compliance issues. In fact, Ware says he sees both the regional transit commission and city planner as friends.

“We have this really cool back-and-forth with the city because they like what we are doing. It reduces the pressure on them to do things that their transit systems don’t support well,” Ware said.

Ware also clarifies that Shift users aren’t necessarily the same as those using public transportation. “We are going to cover the last mile problem, and the people using shift are moving in patterns that public transit doesn’t cover, so we aren’t deferring anyone from public transit,” he said.

Expansion in future

While Bridj is proving to be a popular form of transportation even during its beta phase, the company wants to expand the service in Boston and refine the technology before launching in new markets, said Kelly.

As for Shift, talks of expansion are underway. The company wouldn’t disclose which cities they are eyeing specifically, but Ware says this time next year Shift will be in one if not two more cities.

]]>With smart phones, sharing our location can be as easy as logging into an app. And, pop-up transit companies like Bridj and Shift are taking advantage of this data and creating a flexible transit system that comes to the customer instead of vice versa.Bridj has been in its beta testing phase for a few months, but has its Jitney License in Boston and Brookline and just got the green light for the Cambridge area.http://www.metro-magazine.com/news/story/2014/12/transportation-startups-create-smart-routes-.aspx